Can a school district limit the number of schools parents can choose from, or will parents have unlimited choice?
NCLB states that districts must provide parents with “reasonable” options, which is generally interpreted to mean at least two choices within the district if more than one school that meets the requirements is available. Students must be given the option to transfer to another public school, which may include a public charter school, within the district. These schools cannot be in “needs improvement” status. A district must take into account the parents’ preferences among the choices offered.
